The Research and Innovation Directorate (RID) wishes to inform the University community that the Schmidt Science Fellows programme is inviting applications from exceptional PhD candidates in the natural sciences, mathematics, engineering, and computing who are committed to advancing interdisciplinary science and making a meaningful societal impact. The Fellowship enables outstanding emerging scientists to pivot from their PhD discipline and pursue bold interdisciplinary research through a postdoctoral placement at a world-class research institution.

 Eligibility

Applicants must:

• Be undertaking or completing a PhD in Astronomy, Biology, Chemistry, Earth Sciences, Physics, Engineering, Mathematics, or Computing.
• Expect to complete all requirements for PhD conferral between 1 May 2026 and 30 June 2027.
• Be nominated by their PhD institution (University of Ghana).

Please note that the following applicants are not eligible for this program.

• Individuals on clinical track MD‑PhD or veterinary‑PhD programs.
• PhD students in social and political science or economics.
• Applications proposing a pivot into social or political science, or economics.

 What the Fellowship Offers

• A personal stipend of USD 110,000 per year for up to two years of postdoctoral study in a discipline different from the PhD, at an approved institution anywhere in the world.
• Access to a Science Leadership Programme, including three week-long residential convenings and virtual professional development activities.
• Personalised mentoring from internationally recognised interdisciplinary science leaders.
• Membership in a lifelong global network of fellows and alumni.
• Scientific freedom to pursue ambitious, high-risk, high-impact research goals.

 Who They Are Looking For

• Brilliant early-career scientists in the natural sciences, mathematics, engineering, and computing.
• Curious and creative researchers willing to pivot away from their PhD research area to explore new interdisciplinary fields.
• Academically excellent, risk-positive individuals committed to high-impact science.
• Future leaders with the character and potential to lead teams and drive transformative discoveries.
• Talented individuals motivated to increase the potential for interdisciplinary collaboration.

 Internal Submission Requirements

Interested applicants should submit the following documents to RID no later than Friday, 17 April 2026

• Internal application Form ( Attached)
• Personal Statement
• Abstract of PhD Thesis
• Curriculum Vitae (maximum 3 pages)
• Proof of PhD Thesis Submission

Prospective applicants are to merge all required documents into a single PDF file and email to orid-vrs@ug.edu.gh, with davidappiah@ug.edu.gh in copy, with the subject line: Schmidt Science – (Full Name)

 For further information on this call, kindly see attached or visit: https://schmidtsciencefellows.org/selection/who-can-apply/